• 2 1/4 to 3 1/4 cups flour 
• 1/4 cup sugar 
• 1 teaspoon salt 
• 1 package rapid rise dry yeast 
• 2 eggs; beaten 
• 2/3 cup warm milk 
• 2 tablespoons melted butter 
• 1 tablespoon anise seed 
• 1/2 cup candied fruit (optional) 
• 1/4 cup chopped nuts (optional) 
• 5 raw colored eggs 

Combine 1 cup of the flour, sugar, salt, and yeast.   
Add dry mixture to the milk and melted butter mixture, along with the eggs.  
Beat with a mixer for 2 minutes.  
Stir in enough of the remaining flour and the anise seed plus any of the candied fruit or nuts to make a soft dough.  
Knead for 8 to 10 minutes.  
Add flour as necessary so dough is not sticky. Let rise for about 1- 1 1/2 hour or until double in size. 
Divide dough in half.  
Roll each piece into 24" rope.  
Overlap dough over itself (twist 2 pieces together) connecting the 4 end pieces 
to form a wreath. place on greased baking sheet.  
Place the five raw colored eggs into spaces between twists.  
Brush with melted butter.   
Let rise for 1 hour.  
Bake at 350 for 35-50 minutes.